Yellowstone in August: Weather, Wildlife, and Best Things To Do
Yellowstone in August is a lively experience with the park in peak summer season. The weather is warm and ideal for outdoor activities, making it a perfect time for hiking, wildlife watching, and exploring. Wildflowers are in full bloom, the bison rut is in full swing, and although crowds are high, August also brings long daylight hours ideal for seeing everything Yellowstone offers in one trip. Here’s what to expect when visiting Yellowstone in August… from weather to wildlife and the best things to do to get away from crowds.
What to Expect Visiting Yellowstone in August
Here’s an overview of what you can expect when visiting Yellowstone in August.
The Weather is Great: August brings warm days and cooler nights, with daytime highs typically ranging from 70°F to 80°F. Expect dry, sunny weather with occasional afternoon thunderstorms (though rain is generally light in August). Snow is highly unlikely at lower elevations, and mosquito activity begins to dissipate as the month progresses.
Wildlife Watching Opportunities: Wildlife watching is good in Yellowstone year-round, and in August, you can spot bison, elk, wolves, pronghorn, otters, bald eagles, bears, and much more, particularly in the early morning or late evening. (Most animals retreat to higher elevations or forested areas during the heat of the day.) The bison rut is in full swing in August, and bears are still active.
August is Prime Season: From Memorial Day weekend through October 31st, Yellowstone is in its prime season. During this time, all park roads, lodges, dining options, and facilities are generally open, allowing full access to the park's most popular attractions. It’s a great month to visit and explore everything Yellowstone offers in one trip! August is also a great month for stargazing, with clear skies that often make the Milky Way more visible. Firehole Canyon Drive, Lake Butte Overlook, and the parking lot at the top of Chittenden Road near Mount Washburn are good spots for stargazing in Yellowstone.
Expect Traffic and Crowds: August is one of the busiest months in Yellowstone. Expect heavy traffic, especially near popular spots like Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring. Parking lots fill up quickly, and you’ll likely experience delays or congestion on the park’s main roads. To avoid the worst of the crowds, start your day early and stay out late, get to the park’s entrances before 9AM, and avoid popular attractions between 10AM and 4PM.
August is Great for Hiking: Sharing the trail throughout Yellowstone’s Bear Country is not a bad thing. Busy summer months are actually my favorite time of the year to hike in Yellowstone because more people means more safety for hiking. Many trails are also fully accessible in August, making it the perfect time to hike higher elevation trails, like Avalanche Peak, which are generally still snow-covered earlier in the summer.
The Bison Rut: The bison rut is Yellowstone's most exciting wildlife event in August. Head to Lamar Valley to witness male bison bellowing and competing for mates—but remember to maintain a safe distance as bison are more aggressive this time of year.
Driving Grand Loop Road in August
Driving Grand Loop Road is one of the best ways to experience Yellowstone in August. Take advantage of longer daylight hours and drive as much of this scenic route as possible. The Grand Loop is a 142-mile figure-eight-shaped road that connects all major attractions in Yellowstone, offering a convenient route for first-time visitors to see the park.
Starting in the north, you'll pass Mammoth Hot Springs, known for its travertine terraces, before heading east toward the scenic Tower-Roosevelt area. Continuing along Grand Loop Road, you’ll come across breathtaking views of Dunraven Pass and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Stay straight to explore scenic canyon vistas, including the famous Artist Point Overlook, or loop west toward Norris Geyser Basin. Walk the boardwalks at Norris Geyser Basin—home to Steamboat Geyser, the world’s tallest active geyser—before connecting with more of Yellowstone’s famous geysers.
Old Faithful, perhaps Yellowstone’s most iconic attraction, lies at the southwestern edge of the Grand Loop. On your way there from Norris, you’ll pass the colorful Grand Prismatic Spring at Midway Geyser Basin. Hike to the Grand Prismatic Overlook (from the Fairy Falls Trail) for a bird’s eye view, then walk the boardwalks at the Midway Geyser Basin for a closer look. (Hot and calm summer afternoons are best for viewing the Grand Prismatic Spring.)
After seeing Old Faithful erupt at the Upper Geyser Basin, you’ll continue to Yellowstone Lake, the largest high-elevation lake in North America. As the sun goes down, make your way to Hayden or Lamar Valleys for great wildlife viewing.
Road conditions in August are generally favorable, with all park roads open for the season. However, traffic is heavy in Yellowstone in August, particularly around popular spots like Old Faithful, the Midway Geyser Basin, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone’s North and South Rims. A good rule of thumb is to avoid these most popular spots between 10AM and 4PM in August—take advantage of longer daylight hours and head into the backcountry midday instead. You can also explore more remote areas of the park, such as the drive from Lake Village to Yellowstone’s East Entrance and from Tower-Roosevelt to Yellowstone’s Northeast Entrance.
Is Yellowstone crowded in August?
Yes, August is one of the busiest months in Yellowstone, with peak crowds. Expect traffic and full parking lots, and plan to arrive early or stay late at popular attractions for an easier time with parking and a more enjoyable experience.
Although Yellowstone is very crowded in August, it’s busy for a reason—summer is the best time of the year for first-time visitors to be in the park. The weather is warm and inviting, with long daylight hours giving you extra time to explore. Yellowstone's natural colors are at their most vibrant, with the Grand Prismatic Spring putting on a show on sunny, calm afternoons and wildflowers in full bloom across the meadows. Enjoy this special time of year when you can experience much of what Yellowstone offers in one trip!
August is one of the busiest months to visit Yellowstone.
4 (Less-Crowded) Things to Do in Yellowstone in August
August is peak season in Yellowstone when the entire park is fully open. It’s a great time to drive Yellowstone’s Grand Loop and stop at every attraction that interests you, from Mammoth Hot Springs in the north to Canyon Village in the east and Old Faithful in the south. While these famous spots—just to name a few—are must-sees, August is one of the busiest times to be in the park, and sometimes you need a reprieve from the crowds. Here are four less-crowded things to do in Yellowstone in August.
Drive Beyond Grand Loop Road: Yellowstone's Grand Loop is an approximately 142-mile scenic drive through Yellowstone’s most iconic landscapes and attractions. It’s a must-do when visiting Yellowstone in August! However, on busy summer days, consider driving beyond Yellowstone’s Grand Loop to more remote park areas with less traffic. Drive from Lake Village to Yellowstone’s East Entrance, Tower-Roosevelt to Yellowstone’s Northeast Entrance, and Firehole Canyon Drive near Madison Junction.
Drive the nearby Beartooth Highway: Beartooth Highway is often considered one of the most scenic drives in America. However, due to its high elevation and snow, it’s generally closed until the end of May or early June and only stays open until mid-September. Summer is the best time to drive Beartooth Highway and avoid unexpected closures. Drive past Cooke City, near Yellowstone’s Northeast Entrance, and follow Beartooth Highway to Red Lodge, MT.
Get on the Water: A great way to avoid crowds in Yellowstone in August is to get off the roads altogether. Go river rafting on the Yellowstone River in Gardiner, MT, spend an afternoon boating on Yellowstone Lake, or head to one of many great areas within the park to fly fish. Canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and other non-motorized boats are also allowed on lakes in Yellowstone (except Sylvan Lake, Eleanor Lake, Twin Lakes, and Beach Springs Lagoon).
Explore the Trails: Getting on the trails—by way of hiking or horseback riding—is another great way to skip the crowds in August. There are more than 15 miles of boardwalk trails and about 1000 miles of hiking trails throughout Yellowstone. While boardwalk trails are close to the road and busy, there are plenty of day hikes that leave the crowds behind. Or you can book with one of several authorized outfitters for guided horseback rides. Hike or ride through meadows, forests, and along scenic trails, with opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy stunning views.
Rafting on the Yellowstone River near Gardiner, MT.
3 Ways to Avoid Crowds in August
Avoiding crowds in Yellowstone at any time of year requires some strategy, but this is especially true in August, one of the park's busiest months. To navigate around peak congestion, consider visiting popular attractions early in the morning or later in the evening when crowds are thinner. Exploring lesser-known areas or less popular trails can also provide a more enjoyable experience. Here are three tips to help you avoid crowds in Yellowstone in August.
Start Early: Aim to be on the road by sunrise for wildlife watching and at the most popular attractions—like Artist Point, Old Faithful, and the Grand Prismatic Spring—before 9AM. Yellowstone’s most popular attractions are much quieter early in the morning and are their most crowded between 10AM and 4PM. RTL Tip: The West Thumb Geyser Basin and Artist Point Overlook are particularly beautiful in sunrise or early morning light.
Stay Out Late: You can also plan to explore Yellowstone’s busiest sites in the evening. After 5PM, many visitors leave the park or settle into their accommodations, making the late afternoon and early evening another great time to visit popular attractions. RTL Tip: The hour before sunset is a stunning time to visit the Grand Prismatic Spring at the Midway Geyser Basin or to explore the Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces.
Book in Advance & Stay Longer: Lodging within the park books up months in advance, as do prime tours and activities, so planning ahead ensures you don't miss out. Staying longer allows you to explore the park at a more relaxed pace, giving you the flexibility to visit popular spots during quieter times of the day. It also reduces the pressure to fit everything into a short trip—there’s a lot to see and do in Yellowstone! When you book in advance, you’ll also have more options for where to stay in Yellowstone—and we highly recommend Canyon Village or the Old Faithful area to reduce driving time and make it easier to reach the park's top attractions during less busy hours. For closer proximity to the bison rut, stay in Tower-Roosevelt, Mammoth, or Gardiner.
Midway Geyser Basin © [halbergman] via Canva.com
Wildlife Events in Yellowstone in August
Take advantage of longer daylight hours in August to see various wildlife, such as bison during their rut, wolves in the valleys, otters around Yellowstone Lake, and an array of birds in the park's diverse habitats. Wildlife viewing is best during dawn and dusk, especially during summer months. Here are some wildlife events happening in Yellowstone in August.
Bison Rut (Lamar and Hayden Valley): August is prime time for the bison rut, where you'll witness male bison competing for dominance. Expect loud bellows and dramatic battles—and many bison jams, where a bull or herd of bison block the road and cause a temporary traffic jam. The bison rut is most commonly seen in Lamar and Hayden Valleys, and there’s nothing quite like the adrenaline rush of being caught in a bison jam during the rut.
Pronghorn Mating Season: Toward the end of August, pronghorn begin their rut, which continues into September. You may observe males defending their territory and females as they prepare for mating season.
Red Squirrels Stashing for Winter: In Yellowstone's forests, red squirrels are actively gathering pine cones and seeds to store for the colder months ahead. Their energetic scurrying adds a unique burst of activity as they prepare for winter.
Uinta Ground Squirrels Hibernating: By August, many Uinta ground squirrels have already disappeared underground to start their hibernation. While they are commonly seen earlier in the summer, spotting them in August becomes much less frequent.
Wildlife to Spot in August: Elk, wolves, bears, and birds are still commonly seen throughout the park, especially in areas like Lamar Valley, Hayden Valley, Tower Fall, and Dunraven Pass.
Always observe wildlife from a safe distance, using binoculars or a spotting scope for a closer view. Stay on designated trails and follow park guidelines to ensure both your safety and the well-being of the animals.
Bison blocking the road in Lamar Valley.
Is August a good time to hike in Yellowstone?
August is a great time to hike in Yellowstone since the weather is good, most trails are fully accessible, and there’s limited snow. However, you’ll want to stay bear-aware in August and start hikes early to avoid the heat and ensure parking. Here are three hikes to consider in Yellowstone in August.
Fairy Falls Trail: This relatively easy 5.4-mile round-trip hike takes you to a picturesque waterfall—and, more importantly, offers a stunning view of the Grand Prismatic Spring from a nearby overlook. We recommend saving this hike for the warmest, calmest, sunniest afternoon of your trip when Yellowstone’s most colorful attraction is at its absolute best.
Wapiti, Clear Lake, Ribbon Lake, and South Rim Trail: This is a moderate 5-mile loop near Canyon Village. Pass Clear Lake, an alpine lake with clear waters and peaceful surroundings, and Ribbon Lake, a quieter lake that offers a more secluded experience compared to Yellowstone’s more popular locations. Hike counterclockwise, and don’t forget to stop at the Artist Point Overlook for one of the best views in the park!
Avalanche Peak Trail: If you’re looking for a short but challenging hike in Yellowstone, consider Avalanche Peak. Starting from the East Entrance Road, this trail ascends steeply to reach Avalanche Peak, where the summit provides breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness, including the Yellowstone Plateau, the Absaroka Range, and the eastern edge of the park. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions and high-altitude exposure. The approximately 4.5 mile trail is best hiked from mid-July through September when the snow has melted and conditions are more favorable.
Hiking the Wrangler Lake Trail in Yellowstone.
What to Wear in Yellowstone in August
If you’re planning to hike a lot, lightweight, moisture-wicking layers are essential. Start with a breathable base layer, add a warm fleece or light sweater, and bring a waterproof, windproof jacket for unexpected afternoon thunderstorms. Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support are a must for navigating Yellowstone's rugged trails, and don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect against the mountain sun.
If you're camping, prepare for chilly nights by packing a warm, insulated jacket, a beanie, and gloves, as temperatures can drop significantly after sunset. A cozy fleece or down sleeping bag for cool nights is also recommended.
Quick-drying clothing and water shoes are helpful for those looking to get on the water or fish. A long-sleeved, lightweight shirt can help protect against sunburn and bug bites, while a brimmed hat will shield your face from the sun's glare on the water.
If you plan on watching wildlife in the early morning or late evening, dress in layers to stay warm, as temperatures can be quite cool at dawn and dusk, even in August. Consider wearing a warm, packable jacket and have gloves and a hat handy. Remember to bring binoculars and a camera to capture those wildlife moments, and wear sturdy shoes to walk to the best viewing spots.
FAQs
Is August the best time to visit Yellowstone?
August is a great time to visit Yellowstone for hiking, camping, warm weather, all park facilities being open, and long daylight hours, but it’s also one of the busiest months of the year. Despite the traffic, August is still a great time to see everything Yellowstone offers in one trip.
What’s the weather like in Yellowstone in August?
In August, Yellowstone generally experiences warm days and cooler nights, with daytime highs typically ranging from 70°F to 80°F. Expect dry, sunny weather with occasional afternoon thunderstorms. Snow is highly unlikely at lower elevations, though some higher peaks may see a dusting on rare, cooler days.
Can you swim in Yellowstone in August?
Yellowstone offers limited opportunities to swim or soak due to cold lake temperatures and boiling hot springs. The Firehole Swim Area, located two miles south of Madison Junction on Firehole Canyon Drive, is the only place to swim inside the park and generally opens for swimming mid-summer. (Note: Swimming is currently not allowed at Boiling River, as this area was impacted during the 2022 floods.) Outside the park, you can swim and soak at Yellowstone Hot Springs, located about 12 minutes north of Gardiner, MT, and Chico Hot Springs, located about 40 minutes north of Gardiner. Read more about swimming in Yellowstone here.
Are there mosquitoes in Yellowstone in August?
Yes, mosquitoes can still be present, especially near wetlands and lakes, but they tend to be less of a nuisance as the summer progresses into late August.
Are there any road closures in Yellowstone in August?
Typically, all roads are open in August, but temporary closures can occur due to weather or construction. Check current road status and conditions here.
What’s the best time of day to visit popular spots like Old Faithful?
Early morning or late evening are the best times to visit Old Faithful and other popular spots to avoid the heaviest crowds. Be at these areas before 9AM or after 5PM. Trying to do just about anything midday in August will be busy, with limited parking and heavy crowds.
What’s the best way to see the bison rut in August?
Lamar Valley and Hayden Valley are prime spots to witness the bison rut in August. (Between the two, we’re partial to Lamar Valley during the rut.)
Can I fish in Yellowstone in August?
July and August are generally the best months for fishing in Yellowstone. Most of the park's rivers and lakes are fully accessible, and fish feed actively due to the warm temperatures and high insect activity.
Can I visit Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park in August?
Yes, August is a great time to visit both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park, as the road between the two parks is open, and the weather is generally pleasant.
What is Yellowstone Christmas in August?
Yellowstone Christmas in August is an annual celebration in Yellowstone lodges where staff and visitors observe a lighthearted "Christmas" celebration with decorations and festivities on the eve and night of August 25th. Local legend has it that a blizzard once hit Yellowstone—on August 25th—and that date has been celebrated as “Yellowstone Christmas” ever since!
What time does it get dark in Yellowstone in August?
In early August, it gets dark around 9PM, while by late August, sunset is closer to 8PM, still giving you plenty of daylight for exploring the park.
Is there a difference between early August, mid-August, and late August?
There’s not much difference across August regarding the best things to do and see. Early August is the busiest time with peak crowds and vibrant wildflowers, mid-August sees the bison rut in full swing, and late August is slightly less crowded as summer winds down.
What’s the best way to see Yellowstone in only a few days?
If you only have a few days in Yellowstone, focus on driving Grand Loop Road, visiting popular attractions like Old Faithful and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and looking for wildlife in Lamar and Hayden Valleys. Check out our Yellowstone Travel Guide for detailed 1 and 2-day Yellowstone itineraries.
How busy are Yellowstone lodges and campgrounds in August?
Lodges and campgrounds in Yellowstone are extremely busy in August, and reservations often need to be made months in advance. In addition to in-park lodging, you can also stay in a town near one of Yellowstone’s entrances. These towns are great for more/cheaper lodging options and access to amenities like restaurants, shopping, coffee shops, grocery stores, and more. You’re also more likely to get a last-minute booking in one of Yellowstone’s gateway towns versus in-park lodging. Check out Gardiner, MT (North Entrance), West Yellowstone, MT (West Entrance), and Cody, WY (East Entrance).
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Happy Travels!